Nova Varoš is located in the central part of Zlatibor in southwestern Serbia. The municipality, which is 280 km from Belgrade, is accessible via the M-21 highway heading toward the Adriatic Sea. The area is renowned for its majestic scenic landscapes, freshwater springs, hydroelectric energy and lush forests.

Nova Varos is well known for its large-scale agricultural output, cattle breeding and dairy production. Zlatar cheese is a specialty of the region. Nova Varos exhibits plenty of potential to develop its fruit growing, beekeeping and forest fruit processing industries. The municipality is a key producer of buckwheat, an ingredient in various national dishes and a highly sought after organic grain in the global market.

The Holy Trinity and Mosque is one of the main landmarks in Novi Varos. Venture beyond the city, and you will discover the Dubnica monastery in Božetići and the Nemanjići period ethno village in Štitkovo.

Zlatar Mountain is just north of Nova Varos. It is 22 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide. At an altitude of 1627 meters, Golo brdo is its highest peak. Zlatar is surrounded by the Lim River on the west, the Uvac River on the east, the Bistrica River to the north and the Mileševo River to the south. The mountain and its surroundings are truly breathtaking.

If you are in Zlatar a visit to the log cabin style church in Radijevići is a must. Built by priest Vasilije Purić in 1808, the church exhibits features similar to those built by the Vlachs. The church, which contains five exquisite and well-preserved icons by Andrija Raičević, is under state protection as a monument of cultural significance.

Along with Zlatar, the Murternica Mountain dominates this region. You will find the oldest log cabin style church atop one of its ridges in Peti. Dedicated to the Birth of the Most Holy Mother of God, the church was built in 1832 with the help of Archbishop Mihailo.

ACTIVITIES

If you are interested in exploring fascinating caves, a visit to the Bukovik cave and Usacki cave system is a must! At 6.2 km, it is the longest speleological site in Serbia. Some of the caves in the system are located in the Uvac nature reserve and are accessible only via water.

The beautiful Zlatarsko, Sjeničko, Radoinjsko and Potpećko lakes offer endless possibilities for camping swimming, fishing and boating. Each harnesses hydroelectric power via the Uvac, Kokin Brod, Bistrica and Potpeć plants. One of Europe’s largest dams is located at Kokin Brod, just 11 km north of Nova Varos heading toward Zlatibor. The construction of the dam created the beautiful 30 km Zlatar Lake, which contains over 100 million cubic meters of water.

Prijepolje

SIGHTS

The town of Prijepolje lies in the heart of the Lim valley. The town initially developed at the mouth of the Lim and Mileševka rivers. Its microclimate is a result of its location 140 km from the sea and 160 km from the Panonian basin. The 1734 m Jadovnik Mountain is the highest peak in this rugged mountainous region. Its lowest point (440 m) lies at the intersection of the Mileševka and Lim rivers.

According to archeological findings, numerous civilizations have left their mark here. The town’s beginnings are tied to the Mileševa Monastery, founded in 1234 by King Vladislav. The monastery is one of the most renowned in Serbia for its extraordinary frescoes, including the enchanting White Angel fresco. For a number of years, the monastery was also the gravesite of St. Sava, the first Serbian Archbishop. The Bosnian Ban Tvrtko was crowned here in 1377. In the 15th century, the monastery served as the residence of Archbishop Mileševo. One of Serbia’s first printing shops opened here in the 16th century. This exquisite monastery is a must see!

Apart form Mileševa, the Kumanica, Mili and Davidovica monasteries, which were restored ten years ago, are also worth visiting.

ACTIVITIES

For specific details on places to see and things to do in the area, including the Limski darovi (Lim gifts) and Limska regata” (Lim’s regatta) events, check with one of the local tourist organizations.

Priboj

SIGHTS

Pribolj is located on the banks of the Lim River and is divided into two sections: the old and the new. The area is known for its turbulent past and succession of different rulers, including the Romans, Turks and Austro-Hungarians. In the Middle Ages the old caravan road here served as the shortest route between Carigrad (Istanbul)and Dubrovnik. The city’s native museum in Priboj features a number of exhibits about daily life in the region.

ACTIVITIES

Pribolj’s vast forests offer ample opportunities for hunting. The Javorje hunting reserve is home to a protected species of mountain bears. The town organizes a traditional wolf hunt every year in mid-October.

At an altitude of 550 meters, the Pribojska Banja Spa is perched on a high plateau and abounds with thermal and mineral resources. Come and enjoy its scenic views!

When in Nova Varos, Prijepolje and Pribolj, we recommend:

– A visit to the medieval town of Jerina on the Lim River

– A visit to the stunning Mileševa monastery

– Whitewater rafting on the Lim and Uvac rivers

THE GRIFFON VULTURE

The Uvac wildlife reserve is home to the majestic griffon vulture (Gips fulvus). The species is the last in the vulture family that has survived in Serbia. Resembling an eagle, the griffon vulture’s wingspan can reach three meters. The role of the griffon vulture in the ecosystem is unique. If feeds on dead animals, which is key in preventing the spread of infection diseases.